France and Belgium, who clashed in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, will meet again in the Euro 2024 last-16 in Dusseldorf on Monday evening.
Both teams didn't fully display their potential during the group stage, finishing second after surprising final-day draws.
Kylian Mbappe, on his way to Real Madrid, finally scored his first Euro goal for France with a penalty against Poland in Group D. Although Poland was awarded a penalty too, Robert Lewandowski's initial shot was saved by Mike Maignan. However, Maignan's movement off the line led to a retake, which Lewandowski converted, resulting in a 1-1 draw. France finished second in their group after Austria's unexpected win over the Netherlands.
As France faces tough competition in the knockout stages with teams like Portugal, Germany, and Spain, their defense remains strong, conceding only one goal in the group stage. This goal, Lewandowski's penalty, is the only one France has conceded in their last five games.
Conversely, Belgium struggled offensively, scoring in just one of their three group matches in Group E, where all four teams ended with the same points – a first in men's European Championship history.
After a 2-0 win against Romania, Belgium drew 0-0 with Ukraine, securing second place in their group due to goal difference. Belgium's attack, managing just two goals in the group stage, needs improvement.
While Mbappe has found his scoring form, Belgium's Romelu Lukaku is still searching for his first Euro 2024 goal. Despite this, Belgium has only lost one of their last 18 matches in all competitions.
Belgium has faced France frequently, losing 1-0 in the 2018 World Cup semi-final and 3-2 in the 2021 Nations League semi-final. If Belgium can overcome France this time, they will face either Portugal or Slovenia in the next round.
INJURIES & SUSPENSIONS
After completing 90 minutes against Poland without any issues, Mbappe is set to lead France’s attack again. Coach Deschamps should have his entire squad available for the match.Deschamps benched Antoine Griezmann for the final group game, but Griezmann is expected to return to the starting lineup. This change will likely see France return to their 4-2-3-1 formation. Speculation surrounds who will make way for Griezmann, with Adrien Rabiot potentially shifting to the left, possibly at the expense of Bradley Barcola.
For Belgium, coach Tedesco will have Dodi Lukebakio available again after his suspension. Lukebakio may replace Leandro Trossard, who struggled against Ukraine. Yannick Carrasco, who was effective in the last game, is also a strong candidate to start.
Tedesco’s only injury worries are Axel Witsel (adductor) and Thomas Meunier (thigh). Both are recovering but are not expected to play in Dusseldorf.
Another concern for Tedesco is the potential suspension of Wout Faes if he gets another yellow card. However, Faes, who made a crucial block against Ukraine, is expected to start regardless.
PREDICTED LINE-UPS
France possible starting lineup:Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni; Dembele, Griezmann, Rabiot; Mbappe
Belgium possible starting lineup:
Casteels; Castagne, Faes, Vertonghen, Theate; Tielemans, Onana; Doku, De Bruyne, Carrasco; Lukaku
EXPERT PREDICTIONS
[SPOILER="TAP TO SEE OUR PREDICTIONS"]France 2-1 Belgium[/SPOILER]Both teams have plenty of attacking talent, but neither has really found their rhythm at the Euros so far. This could lead to a more defensive game where the back lines dominate.
Belgium was particularly lucky to avoid losing to Ukraine and being eliminated. If there’s going to be just one goal in the match, it's likely to come from the men in blue.
